The Ghana Police Service has introduced an online system to streamline the process of applying for police clearance certificates. Police clearance certificates verify an individual's criminal records and are required by employers and for visa applications.
The new digital platform, accessible through e-services.police.gov.gh, aims to improve the efficiency and accessibility of the police clearance system which was previously manual. The online application portal provides a user-friendly interface for applicants to submit their forms, upload documents, and make payments securely through Ghana.Gov, the official government payment system.
Traditionally, applicants had to apply in person and wait up to 10 days to receive their certificate. In contrast, the new digital system simplifies and speeds up the application process, making it more convenient for applicants. A police source said the innovative solution would alleviate the stress of applying, providing a convenient way to obtain clearance certificates from anywhere.
The technological upgrade marks a significant step in the Police Service's transformation agenda and streamlining of administrative procedures for public benefit, according to the police administration. Officials hope the digital platform will improve efficiency and contribute to a more accessible criminal justice system benefitting both the public and law enforcement.
To use the new service, applicants must first register an account on e-services.police.gov.gh. Once registered, they select the desired service, provide details, and make payments securely through Ghana.Gov. Subsequently, applicants schedule an appointment and visit a designated center in one of Ghana's 25 police regions to have their fingerprints digitally scanned using live scan technology.
DR. GEORGE AKUFFO DAMPARE-IGP.
The police clearance system was decentralized in May 2023, allowing applicants to apply at any police region instead of exclusively at the CID Headquarters in Accra. Previously, all applicants had to travel to Accra, which placed pressure on individuals and organizations requiring clearance.
The online approach eliminates the need for conventional ink fingerprinting using rollers and slabs, which required applicants to travel to police regions. Before digitalization, delays often occurred due to slow transfer of applications from regions to Accra for processing. Manual fingerprint scanning at CID Headquarters also contributed to delays while concerns included lost receipts, incorrect names, and difficulty tracking applications.
In summary, the Ghana Police Service's new online police clearance application system aims to streamline and speed up the process. By eliminating the need for applicants to apply in person and providing a digital interface, the system seeks to improve accessibility, convenience and efficiency for the public while supporting the police force's technological transformation. Officials hope the online system will help alleviate the stress of applying for police clearance and contribute to a more efficient criminal justice system.
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